Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method of managing a fleet of devices, the method comprising: analyzing device information corresponding to a job, at least partially performed by a workflow device from among a plurality of workflow devices on a device network, the plurality of workflow devices comprising a printing assembly configured to produce printed media and a scanner/verifier assembly configured to obtain the device information at least in part pertaining to one or more digital images of the printed media produced by the printed assembly, wherein the analyzing comprises comparing at least one aspect of said device information to a first parameter value, the first parameter value being based at least in part on a scan parameter or a grade associated with a print quality of the printed media produced by the printed assembly; and responsive to detecting a predefined deviation between the said device information and the first parameter value, sending a first instruction to at least one location on the device network, the first instruction triggering a first action comprising: transmitting configuration data to configure a different workflow device, from amongst the plurality of workflow devices, for performing the job; assigning the job to the different workflow device; and scheduling maintenance for the first device.
Technology Domain: Print and Scan Workflow Management Problem: Inefficient management of a fleet of interconnected printing and scanning devices, leading to potential quality issues and suboptimal job allocation. Invention Summary: This invention describes a method for managing a fleet of devices on a network, specifically focusing on workflows involving printing and scanning. The process begins by analyzing information gathered from a workflow device, which is part of a larger group of workflow devices. This group includes a printing assembly that creates printed materials and a scanner/verifier assembly that captures information about these printed materials, including digital images. The analysis involves comparing specific aspects of the gathered device information against a predefined parameter value. This parameter value is determined by factors such as scan settings or a quality grade related to the printed media. If a significant deviation is detected between the device information and the parameter value, a specific instruction is sent across the device network. This instruction initiates a series of actions. These actions include reconfiguring a different workflow device within the fleet to handle the job, assigning the job to this newly configured device, and scheduling maintenance for the original device that triggered the instruction. This ensures continuous operation, maintains print quality, and optimizes resource utilization within the device network.
2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the plurality of workflow devices comprises a first device and a second device; and wherein the first action comprises assigning the job from the first device to the second device, the second device being the different workflow device.
This invention relates to workflow management systems, specifically improving job assignment between multiple devices in a workflow. The problem addressed is inefficient job distribution in workflow environments where tasks must be dynamically reassigned between different devices to optimize performance, reduce bottlenecks, or handle device failures. The method involves a system with multiple workflow devices, including at least a first device and a second device. The first device initiates a job, and the system assigns this job to the second device, which is a different workflow device. This reassignment ensures that tasks are distributed effectively across available devices, improving overall workflow efficiency. The system may also include mechanisms to monitor device status, prioritize jobs, or handle conflicts when multiple devices attempt to process the same job. The reassignment process may involve checking the second device's availability, ensuring it has the necessary resources to complete the job, and confirming it is the optimal device for the task. The system may also track job progress, allowing for further reassignments if needed. This dynamic job distribution helps prevent overloading any single device and ensures tasks are completed in the most efficient manner possible. The invention is particularly useful in environments where workflow devices have varying capabilities or where job priorities change frequently.
3. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the plurality of workflow devices comprises a first device, a second device, and a third device; and wherein the deviation from the first parameter value corresponds to printed media produced by the first device, and wherein the first action comprises assigning the job from the second device to the third device, the third device being the different workflow device.
This invention relates to a method for managing workflow devices in a printing system to address deviations in print quality. The system monitors multiple workflow devices, including a first, second, and third device, to detect deviations from a specified parameter value, such as print quality metrics. When a deviation is detected in the output of the first device, the system takes corrective action by reassigning a print job from the second device to the third device. This ensures that the print job is processed by a different workflow device to maintain consistent output quality. The method involves dynamically adjusting workflow assignments based on real-time performance data to minimize disruptions and maintain production efficiency. The system may also include additional workflow devices, each capable of performing similar or complementary tasks, and the reassignment logic ensures optimal device utilization while compensating for deviations in any single device. The approach improves reliability and reduces downtime in automated printing environments.
4. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the device network further comprises a standby device; and wherein the first action further comprises triggering the standby device to be introduced into a workflow environment, the standby device being the different workflow device.
This invention relates to a method for managing devices in a networked workflow environment, particularly addressing the need for seamless integration of standby devices to maintain operational continuity. The method involves a device network where a standby device is included to ensure uninterrupted workflow when a primary device fails or requires maintenance. When a triggering event occurs, such as a device malfunction or scheduled downtime, the system automatically introduces the standby device into the workflow environment. The standby device replaces the primary device, ensuring that workflow processes continue without disruption. The method ensures that the standby device is compatible with the existing workflow, allowing for a smooth transition. This approach enhances system reliability by minimizing downtime and maintaining productivity in automated or semi-automated workflows. The invention is particularly useful in industrial automation, data processing, or any system where continuous operation is critical. The standby device is pre-configured or dynamically configured to match the requirements of the workflow, ensuring seamless integration. The method may also include monitoring the standby device's performance to verify its proper operation within the workflow. This solution addresses the problem of device failures causing workflow interruptions by providing a pre-configured backup that can be quickly deployed.
5. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the first action further comprises scheduling maintenance for one or more workflow devices from among the plurality of workflow devices.
This invention relates to automated workflow management systems, specifically addressing the challenge of optimizing maintenance scheduling for devices involved in workflow processes. The system monitors the operational status and performance metrics of multiple workflow devices to identify when maintenance is required. It then schedules maintenance tasks for these devices in a way that minimizes disruption to ongoing workflows. The scheduling process considers factors such as device criticality, maintenance urgency, and workflow dependencies to ensure that maintenance is performed at optimal times. The system may also prioritize maintenance for devices that are at higher risk of failure or those whose failure would have the most significant impact on workflow efficiency. By proactively scheduling maintenance, the system reduces unplanned downtime and improves overall workflow reliability. The invention is particularly useful in industrial automation, manufacturing, and other environments where continuous operation of workflow devices is essential.
6. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the plurality of workflow devices comprises a first device and a second device; and wherein the deviation from the first parameter value corresponds to printed media produced by the first device.
This invention relates to a system for monitoring and correcting deviations in printed media production across multiple workflow devices. The problem addressed is ensuring consistent print quality and performance when using different printing devices in a workflow, where variations in device settings or conditions can lead to deviations from desired output parameters. The system involves a plurality of workflow devices, including at least a first device and a second device, each capable of producing printed media. The method detects deviations from a first parameter value, such as color accuracy, print resolution, or media alignment, specifically in printed media produced by the first device. Upon detecting such deviations, the system may adjust the first device's settings, compensate for the deviation in subsequent processing steps, or flag the output for review. The second device operates independently but may also be monitored for deviations, allowing the system to maintain uniformity across the entire workflow. The solution ensures that printed media meets predefined quality standards, reducing waste and rework in production environments.
7. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the analyzing of the device information further comprises comparing at least one aspect of the device information to a second parameter value, the second parameter value being based at least in part on a quality metric corresponding to the print quality of the printed media; and in response to detecting a predefined deviation between the said device information and the second parameter value, sending a second instruction to at least one location on the device network, the second instruction triggering a second action in response to address the deviation, the second action comprising changing an input parameter for at least one workflow device from among the plurality of workflow devices, the input parameter comprising print logic.
This invention relates to a method for monitoring and adjusting print workflows in a networked printing environment to improve print quality. The method involves analyzing device information from multiple workflow devices, such as printers, scanners, or other printing-related equipment, to detect deviations in performance. Specifically, the method compares at least one aspect of the device information to a predefined quality metric related to print quality. If a deviation is detected, the system sends an instruction to one or more devices on the network to adjust an input parameter, such as print logic, to correct the issue. The adjustment may involve modifying settings or processes within the printing workflow to ensure consistent and high-quality output. This approach allows for automated detection and correction of print quality issues, reducing manual intervention and improving efficiency in printing operations. The method is particularly useful in environments where maintaining precise print quality is critical, such as in commercial printing or document production.
8. The method according to claim 7 , wherein the quality metric is based at least in part on a value corresponding to or more of: edge determination, minimum reflectance, symbol contrast, minimum edge contrast, modulation, printing defects, quiet zone, and decodability, cell contrast, cell modulation, fixed pattern damage, unused error correction, axial non-uniformity, and grade non-uniformity.
A method for evaluating the quality of printed symbols, such as barcodes or matrix codes, by analyzing multiple visual and structural characteristics. The method addresses the need for comprehensive quality assessment to ensure reliable symbol readability and performance. It calculates a quality metric by evaluating one or more factors, including edge determination, minimum reflectance, symbol contrast, minimum edge contrast, modulation, printing defects, quiet zone integrity, and decodability. Additional factors may include cell contrast, cell modulation, fixed pattern damage, unused error correction capacity, axial non-uniformity, and grade non-uniformity. These metrics collectively assess the symbol's structural integrity, print quality, and resistance to errors. The method enables precise identification of defects and deviations from optimal printing standards, improving symbol reliability in applications such as manufacturing, logistics, and inventory management. By incorporating multiple quality indicators, the approach ensures robust performance across varying printing conditions and environments.
9. The method according to claim 7 , wherein the plurality of workflow devices comprises a first device and a second device; and wherein the deviation from the second parameter value corresponds to printed media produced by the first device, and wherein the second action comprises changing an input parameter for the second device.
This invention relates to workflow management in printing systems, specifically addressing inconsistencies in printed media output across multiple devices. The problem solved is ensuring uniform print quality when multiple devices are involved in a workflow, where variations in device settings or environmental factors can lead to deviations in printed output. The method involves monitoring a plurality of workflow devices, including at least a first device and a second device, to detect deviations in a second parameter value of the printed media produced by the first device. The second parameter value may relate to color accuracy, media alignment, or other print quality metrics. Upon detecting such a deviation, a corrective action is taken by adjusting an input parameter of the second device. This adjustment compensates for the detected inconsistency, ensuring that the overall workflow maintains consistent output quality. The method may also involve comparing the second parameter value to a predefined threshold or reference value to determine the need for correction. The adjustment of the second device's input parameter may include modifying settings such as color calibration, media feed rate, or other operational parameters to align the output with desired specifications. This approach allows for dynamic correction within a multi-device printing workflow, improving efficiency and reducing waste due to inconsistent print quality.
10. The method according to claim 7 , wherein the second action further comprises scheduling maintenance for one or more workflow devices from among the plurality of workflow devices.
This invention relates to automated workflow management systems, specifically addressing the challenge of optimizing maintenance scheduling for devices involved in workflow processes. The system monitors the operational status and performance metrics of multiple workflow devices to identify potential issues or inefficiencies. When a problem is detected, the system triggers a second action that includes scheduling maintenance for the affected devices. This maintenance scheduling is based on real-time data analysis, ensuring that devices are serviced at optimal times to minimize downtime and disruptions to the workflow. The system may also prioritize maintenance tasks based on the severity of detected issues, the criticality of the devices, or other operational constraints. By automating the scheduling process, the invention reduces manual intervention, improves maintenance efficiency, and enhances overall workflow reliability. The method integrates with existing workflow management systems to provide seamless coordination between device monitoring, issue detection, and maintenance planning. This approach ensures that maintenance activities are performed proactively, reducing the risk of unexpected failures and improving the longevity of the devices.
11. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the first parameter value further comprises a cost value based at least in part on the scan parameter or the grade for the printed media; and wherein the first action further comprises changing an input parameter for at least one workflow device, the input parameter operative to change the cost value.
This invention relates to optimizing workflow processes in printing systems by dynamically adjusting cost values based on scan parameters or media grades. The method involves determining a first parameter value that includes a cost value derived from scan parameters (e.g., resolution, color depth) or the grade of the printed media (e.g., paper quality, finish). The cost value reflects the resource consumption or operational expenses associated with processing the media. The method further includes performing a first action that modifies an input parameter for at least one workflow device (e.g., a printer, scanner, or finishing machine). This adjustment alters the cost value, enabling real-time cost optimization. For example, if a high-resolution scan is detected, the system may reduce the print quality to lower costs, or if premium media is used, the system may adjust finishing settings to balance cost and quality. The method ensures efficient resource allocation by dynamically linking scan parameters and media grades to cost-driven workflow adjustments. This approach improves cost management in printing operations by automating parameter changes based on real-time data.
12. A system for managing a fleet of devices, the system comprising: a plurality of workflow devices, at least some of the workflow devices comprising a printing assembly configured to produce printed media, and at least some of the workflow devices comprising a scanner/verifier assembly containing a memory, the memory containing instructions executable by one or more processors configured to obtain device information pertaining to the printed media, and at least in part to a job performed by a workflow device from among a plurality of workflow devices; and a device server containing a memory, the memory containing instructions executable by one or more processors, the device server configured to: compare the device information to a parameter value at least one aspect of said device information to a first parameter value, the first parameter value being based at least in part on a scan parameter or a grade associated with a print quality of the printed media produced by the printed assembly; and responsive to detecting a predefined deviation between the said device information and the parameter value, send an instruction to at least one location on the device network, the instruction triggering an action in response to address the deviation, the action at least comprising transmitting configuration data to configure a different workflow device for performing the job, assigning the job to the different workflow device, and scheduling maintenance for the first device.
This system manages a fleet of devices, including printing and scanning/verifying assemblies, to ensure consistent print quality and workflow efficiency. The system monitors printed media by obtaining device information related to the print job, such as scan parameters or print quality grades. A device server compares this information to predefined parameter values, which are based on scan accuracy or print quality standards. If a deviation is detected, the system triggers corrective actions, such as transmitting configuration data to reassign the job to a different workflow device, scheduling maintenance for the affected device, or adjusting workflow settings. The system ensures continuous operation by dynamically reallocating tasks and maintaining device performance, reducing downtime and improving print quality consistency across the fleet. The scanner/verifier assembly verifies print quality, while the device server enforces quality control and workflow adjustments, ensuring optimal device utilization and minimizing errors.
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May 5, 2020
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